A Look at Language Service Providers

2009

Background

20% of the population of FL & 14% of the population of the U.S. is Hispanic.

Over 47 million (16%) people in the U.S. speak a language other than English at home.

Of these people, over 25 million speak English less than "very well”, (3 million in Florida).

Nearly seven million speak little or no English. The data shows that the portion of Americans who speak English

poorly or not at all grew nearly sixty percent since 1990.  Spanish speakers increased from 17.3 million in 1990 to 28.1

million in 2000, a 62 percent rise. The vast majority of non-English speakers (75%) live in just

seven states, Arizona, California, New York, New Jersey, Florida, Texas and Illinois.

*U.S. Census 2000 Survey of U.S. households

Why Use an LSP

Provides registered & certified linguists familiar with legal terminology.

Minimizes possible costly misunderstandings. To render expert witness testimony on language issues.

What to Look for in an LSP

Language Proficiency: Inquire about number of yrs. in the industry, language and

coverage radius, as well as the number of professional linguists they work with (both in-house and freelancers).

Reputation: Quality and experience should be top priority.

Quality control: Inquire if ISO 9001:2000 certified or if they have a quality

management process in place. Inquire if editing and proofreading are done in-house for

better quality control. Inquire if interpreters that will service your account are

certified and if the LSP offers continuing education/seminars to linguists.

What to Look for in an LSP

Accuracy: A reputable LSP should provide proof-reading/editing in

addition to translation. Customer Service:

An AE or PM should manage your project from beginning to end and be ready to answer any questions.

Scope of Services: An experienced LSP should cover all areas of language

services: Consecutive interpretation for trials, depositions & medical

examinations. Simultaneous interpretation for conferences,

technicians/equipment. Translation of documents (certified/uncertified) and websites.

Different Types of Certification

Certified by the State Consortium. Required component of the court interpreter training and

testing program for State Court in Florida since 2002. Certified by the U.S. Administrative Office of the

Courts. Interpreters are qualified to interpret in Federal Court.

Certifications by the American Translators Assoc. (ATA) or National Assoc. Judiciary Interpreters & Translators (NAJIT).

Interpreting vs. Translation

Interpreters interpret the spoken word.

An interpreter has to be able to translate language in two directions.

The interpreter acts as a bridge between people, relaying tone, intentions and emotions.

Their roles require a different mindset as they have to deal with both language and people.

Translators translate the written word.

Translators do not do a final output in real-time and may consult reference material & resources: dictionaries, etc.

Translators only work into their native language to assure accuracy in linguistic and cultural terms.

Translations go through an editing and proofreading process because of the nature of the medium.

How Can an Interpreter Assist You

Allows all parties to speak in their native language, to allow them to express themselves effectively.

Using an interpreter helps minimize possible costly misunderstandings.

Provides language expertise in different disciplines.

Consecutive vs. Simultaneous

Simultaneous interpreting involves interpreting in 'real time'. Simultaneous interpreters quickly absorb what one person is saying and immediately interpret it to others. They must think quickly and on their feet.

Consecutive interpreting is carried out in face-to-face meetings or court cases. A speaker will usually stop at regular junctures, say a few sentences, and have the interpreter translate, before proceeding. A key skill involved in consecutive interpreting is the ability to remember what has been said without paraphrasing.

Website Localization

Website localization crosses language barriers Website localization builds credibility Website localization increases revenue

Billions of dollars in potential revenue are lost each year due to lack of investment in website localization.

*TRNMag.com*Common Sense Advisory Research Firm

Minimize Your Losses

An inaccurate interpretation can affect the witness’ credibility & affect the outcome of a case.

An improperly translated document can have a devastating effect if decisions have been based on faulty information.

Translation Misconceptions

If you know a foreign language, you can be a translator Translating is easy Computers can now do translations Having a professional translation is not crucial

In Other Words

Interpreters have native fluency in the target language, expertise in the subject matter, and years of professional experience.

Linguists work for you and with you. Translated materials & interpretations represent your

company in the global marketplace and in a legal environment.

Choose from professional translation services that are reliable, credible and experienced.

Do your homework before hiring, visit their website & ask for credentials and references.

QUESTIONS?

Please contact: Ximena VazquezInterpreting Sales Managerxvazquez@protranslating.com44 West Flagler Street, Suite 1800Miami, FL 33130305.371.7887 Phone305.371.8366 Faxwww.protranslating.com